New Announcement

Prudential Verani Realty and Real Living | The Norwood Group are pleased to announce the merger of their two residential companies. 

Margherita Verani, Giovanni Verani and Karl Norwood announced today the merger of their companies which are two of the oldest and best known real estate companies in New Hampshire. “The merger between us is a natural progression we welcome with open arms.” said Margherita Verani, President of Prudential Verani Realty. 

Both of these family run real estate organizations have had parallels throughout the past forty- plus years planting their roots in New England. Verani, founded in 1967, and The Norwood Group, founded in 1968, both started as companies based on the pillars of customer service. With Osvaldo Verani owning his own restaurant and Karl Norwood his own milk delivery business prior to founding The Norwood Group with his wife Louise, each taking with them their passion for providing quality customer service. This is what made them the real estate companies they are today.

Throughout the years both companies have cooperated and competed in delivering exceptional customer service to their clients. Earlier this year, Prudential Real Estate & Relocation was acquired by Brookfield Residential Property Services from Prudential Financial Inc.  And with The Norwood Group already under the Brookfield umbrella, this natural expansion seemed to be the perfect fit for both Verani Realty and The Norwood Group.

”When the purchase of the Prudential franchise by Brookfiled Properties was announced, the number of similarities between us made this natural alliance seem even more inevitable. We are both two long standing New Hampshire real estate families who share similar history, core values and company philosophies. We look forward to this new opportunity.” said Giovanni Verani, Vice President of Prudential Verani Realty.

“The Verani team and our group have always had mutual respect for each other over the years.” states Karl Norwood, President of Real Living | The Norwood Group. “With Brookfield’s purchase of Prudential, our two companies were already aligned. With the same corporate ownership, it made sense to continue that partnership at the state level.” Norwood went on to say “we feel this is a unique opportunity for our associates to have available the highest level of technology and expanded national relocation business ensuring continued exceptional service for our customers and clientele”. 

Giovanni added, “We are absolutely thrilled to have the wonderful associates of  Real Living | The Norwood Group joining us in providing home owners and buyers with the most professional real estate services available today.”

NAI Norwood Group, a large commercial real estate brokerage and consulting company, will continue to remain owned and operated by the Norwood family as they continue to build upon their worldwide affiliation with NAI Global. “Our clients, owners, and occupants of commercial real estate will continue to have the reputable Norwood name to turn to when they are in need of brokerage or consulting services.” stated Chris Norwood, Executive Vice President of NAI Norwood Group.

How to Choose the Right Title Company for You

For most people, buying or selling a home is one of the largest financial investments they will make; therefore you need to choose a title company who will handle this transaction efficiently and accurately.

Before choosing a title company you must first have an understanding as to what exactly a title company will do for you.

The title company will search the real estate records in the county where the particular property is located to determine the legal owner of the property, reveal any mortgages, liens, judgments or unpaid taxes which will need to be satisfied before the property is conveyed and detail any existing restrictions, easements or leases that may affect the property

When choosing a real estate title company there are certain things you should look for: for instance you want a company that understands and is familiar with the area you are buying in and knows about the local, state and federal laws. Local and State regulations can vary from state to state or jurisdiction to jurisdiction. You also want a company that will treat you well, be accessible and able to answer your questions as well as walk you through the closing process. A responsible company that will perform the title search as expected

Some real estate title companies may offer additional services such as notary and closing services in addition to the title search, not every title company does. This will save you the time of running around trying to find a notary public and title insurance, than having to coordinate all of these companies having a representative at your closing. This way all of your information is in one place, making the likelihood of your closing happening on time without any issues.

It is the clients right to choose their own title company, but asking your Realtor® for assistance in choosing a title company can lead to a much smoother closing. Title companies work for Realtor ® business and want to make Realtor’s happy so that they will repeatedly use their service. You want to make sure that you chose a company that you trust because they are responsible for a very important part of the home buying process.

Choosing the right real estate title company can make the difference between a stress free and on time closing and a delayed or problematic closing.

Homes Sales Up...Prices continue to climb

August 2012 NHAR Data

Homes Sales Up...Prices continue to climb

New Hampshire Association of Realtors® (NHAR) released data this week confirming that sales of existing homes and prices continue to climb, signs that the housing market is beginning to slowly recover.

Data released Wednesday showed that residential sales in July 2012 were 20% higher compared to homes sold in July 2011. 7,044 homes sold through the first seven months of 2012 were higher than the 5,851 homes sold through the first seven months of 2011.

The median price of home sold in New Hampshire in July 2012 was $215,000 compared to $216,000 in July 2011, just a half of a percent lower. Data confirms stabilizing median prices also.

The last five years have definitely been a buyer’s market; however the market is restricted by tight lending standards and shrinking inventory. Strict lending standards could get stricter in the coming days, as government backed mortgage such as Fannie Mae has informed lenders that it will tighten qualifications for new buyers or those refinancing their homes which could include higher mandatory credit scores for some loans. Such changes could make it more difficult for buyers to qualify for a mortgage.

Evidence in the recent months has pointed to better days ahead for the long suffering housing market. Optimism has appeared in a wide range of data showing increasing sales, homes selling faster, residential construction are up and prices stabilizing.

If the market continues on this tract for the rest of the year into 2013, these numbers should continue to change for the better.

Older Homes Vs. New Homes

When purchasing a home, one of the decisions you will need to consider is whether you want to purchase an older home or a newer one. Some buyers are attracted to the older homes charm and history while others would prefer the modern day conveniences of a newer home. Sometimes the area and your price range can make the decision for you. If you are not sure which is best for you below are some factors to consider.

Older Homes – Advantages

• Construction – Older homes were generally built using stone by experienced craftsmen which some may say you’ll get a more solid house.
• Large Land Lots – Land was much cheaper back then, builders could use larger lot sizes, resulting in more space.
• Character- Original features such as ceiling beams and open fireplaces can be very attractive to many people
• Traditions – many older homes have been owned by the same families for many generations, the houses are passed down through the years, allowing for the development of small communities within the areas

Older Homes – Disadvantages

• Maintenance- With the older homes you can usually expect a little more work such as roof and walls may need updating and many older properties may have old heating systems and wiring which can be expensive to update. Ceilings are also lower in older properties
• Smaller Storage Space – Years ago, possessions were limited therefore people did not require large storage areas. In today’s world storage is an essential requirement for many families.
• More Expensive – Many older properties can also be more expensive due to their location which is usually rural and you will pay for traditional features.

New Homes – Advantages

• Lower maintenance- With new homes modern wiring and heating systems have been installed, walls, roofs, windows and doors will also be brand new.
• Modern Appliances – Many newer homes are sold with fitted kitchens and built in appliances, therefore there is no need to purchase these items separately which can be very expensive
• Incentives – Many builders/property owners will offer incentives such as cash back or pay the closing costs.
• Energy Efficient – In the newer homes, walls and roof are insulated and the heating systems are fitted as standard to the home, in some instances you may also have the option to have solar power installed

New Homes – Disadvantages

• Identical rooms – Most houses on a modern estate will be virtually identical in size and floor plan, this can be a put off for those who prefer a unique home
• Small Land Lots – Land is now more expensive to buy, so builders have to work with much smaller plot plans, therefore newer houses will have smaller lots
• Settling – New houses will settle, this can occur at anywhere regardless of the soil or location resulting in cracks in the foundation, walls and door frames

Clearly there are some advantages and disadvantages with both newer and older properties, in the end it may just come down to personal taste and requirements. Before you buy, try to view both old and new houses, until you find what works best for you and your family.

Real Giving

As part of their “Real Giving “ charity contributions the Sales Associates at Real Living | The Norwood Group Residential Real Estate will be donating their time on July 24^th and 25^th by volunteering for painting services at the Webster House in Manchester, NH.

The Webster House is a private, nonprofit residential facility for New Hampshire’s adolescents, boy and girls between the ages of 8 to 18 who need to live away from home in a supportive environment.

The Associates believe that it is always best to give back to the community. In the past they have sponsored a successful Toys for Tots charity event in which there were over 300 toys donated for the children, they have adopted a family through the Milford Share program and Nashua Pastoral Care and have also sponsored a Food drive for the New Hampshire soup kitchen in which they donated over 7 boxes of food for those in need.

We here at Real Living | The Norwood Group feel it is important to be an integral part of the communities we serve. In our experience the givers are actually more rewarded than those we are helping. It is heartwarming to be a part of this group stated Susan Thornton, Sales Associates of Real Living|The Norwood Group.

It is so important for people to help in any way they can. By volunteering a couple of hours of your time you will not only help in building a better community, you will also put smiles on the faces of those in need.

We would like to thank Charles S. Katis of Universal Décor, Manchester for his generous donation of paint and brushes as well as a donation by Tracy Hawkins of Barrister’s Title.

May Year to Date 2012 New Hampshire Sales

After the release of last month’s 1^st quarter NH Real Estate Market data showing that home sales have begun to increased, the New Hampshire Association of Realtors® (NHAR) recent release on June 12, 2012 has not only confirmed that home sales continued to climb but we are also seeing an increase in median sales prices.

In comparing data for the first 5 months of 2011 to the first 5 months of 2012, reports show a 28% increase in year to date sales. As per the NHAR, the sales spike in May followed increases in January through April totaling 4,440 home sales in 2012 compared to 3670 in 2011.

More than half of New Hampshire’s 10 counties have seen an increase in price, even though statewide May median price saw a 2.4% dip.

Hillsborough County showed 1,183 residential sales in 2012 compared to 965 residential sales for 2011 and 364 Condominium sales for 2012 compared to 326 sales in 2011. Statewide there were 4,440 residential sales in 2012 compared to 3,670 in 2011 and 1,076 condominium sales in 2012 compared to 959 on 2011

Median residential sales prices in Hillsborough County for 2011 YTD were $210,000 and $207,500 in 2012 YTD, and condominium sales prices in Hillsborough County was $138,000 in 2012 compared to $145,000 in 2012. Statewide condominium prices for YTD 2011 was $146,000 compared to $143,950 YTD 2012 and residential was $200,000 YTD 2011 compared to $193,000 YTD 2012.

As per NHAR President John Rice, “these are very solid numbers, in the context of where we have been in recent years, where in the past we have been merely hopeful that things would start to turn, now we appear to have substance to justify that hope”.

How secure is your home?

According to the US Department of Justice a home is burglarized every 15 seconds. A typical homeowner stands to lose approximately $2000 in stolen good or property damage. With the economy at its worse, burglary has become a more common crime. A few simple tips can help your home from being invaded.

1. Bushes, shrubs and trees can offer an intruder a place to hide, trim back any overgrown vegetation so that your home’s windows, porches and doors are visible to neighbors & passerbies.

2. “Window Shopping” is one way criminals choose potential targets, use shades, drapes and other window treatments to keep tempting household items out of view.

3. Putting out boxes from a new flat screen TV, laptop, video game system etc., shows a potential burglar what new and valuable items are now available in your home

4. Have plenty of lighting around your home in the evening such as motion sensing security lighting detector. A sudden change from darkness to bright light will not only startle intruders but also alert the homeowner or neighbor.

5. Use timers that are hooked to outdoor lights as well as radios or televisions, burglars do not want to be confronted by anyone in the home, if they hear sounds of activity they will move on.

6. 60% of all burglaries take place at the ground floor doors and windows. Install deadbolts keyed on both sides on exterior entry doors and protective barriers such as ¼ “Plexiglas over existing glass windows.

7. Do not post on face book or other social media’s that you are going to be away or on vacation.

8. Do not leave vehicles unlocked while parked in your driveway or garage

9. Have someone check on your property if you are going to be away, in many instances your local police department will check on your property.

10. Have someone collect your mail and newspapers; these are other criteria’s burglars use when looking for a home to vandalize.

Most importantly the best form of protection is common sense; lock all doors and windows when leaving your home it’s the simplest and best thing anyone can do to protect your home.

Home Improvements that Yield Big Returns

Home Improvements that Yield Big Returns

Before you invest a lot of money into updates for your home, you should consult us to determine which improvements will most impact your home's sale.

Some renovations not only fail to improve resale profits, but could actually detract from your home's overall value. If you're considering an improvement simply to increase the value of your home, you might consider research from the National Association of REALTORS® and Remodeling Magazine.

The findings? Over-the-top luxury is out, mid-range restraint is in. Boosting living space is in. Put your money where it counts – in first impressions, like replacing the entry door – the only improvement in the cost vs. value survey to return 100% of investment.

Here’s is the list of improvements that provide the most return on investment:

1. Kitchen cabinets
2. Add or replace tile
3. Breakfast bar
4. Granite tile countertops instead of slabs
5. Freshen bathroom
6. Freshen basement
7. Room addition
8. Replace cabinet fronts
9. Replace light fixtures
10. Garage door opener (touchpad)

Sometimes less is more. A little improvement in the right areas can go a long way with buyers, without breaking your budget.

NEW HAMPSHIRE HOME SALES CONTINUE TO CLIMB

May 2012 market data

NEW HAMPSHIRE HOME SALES CONTINUE TO CLIMB

New Hampshire real estate market data for the 1^st quarter was released by the New Hampshire Association of Realtors® (NHAR) shows home sales increased by the most April transactions since 2006.

Recently released statistics of existing home sales (completed transactions which includes single family homes, townhouses, and condominiums) showed a 21% increase in sales for April 2012 compared to April 2011.

In Hillsborough County there were 852 residential sales compared to 705 a year ago and 268 condominium sales compared to 243 sales in 2011. Statewide there were 3,207 residential sales compared to 2,714 and 779 condominium sales compared to 715 sales in 2011. With an 18% increase in year to date sales compared to last year, there are signs that New Hampshire’s housing market is at the start of an uphill climb.

In Hillsborough the Median sales price of residential sales in April of 2011 was $219,500 compared to $210,000 in 2012 and condominium sales were $147,000 in 2011 compared to $129,500 a year ago. Statewide Median home sales price for April 2011 was $199,900 compared to $190,000 in 2012. Pricing is a little bit behind because of market factors but once we begin to see inventory going down, housing prices will start going up.

It is encouraging to see the signs that the housing market is recovering yet it is still too soon to predict a major turnaround. Whether it is new buyers or 1st or 2^nd home sales, the overall New Hampshire sales projections for 2012 look very promising. In the meantime opportunity waits in the marketplace; there really has never been a better time to buy.

Getting Ready for Spring

One thing we never have 100% control over is a buyer’s first impression of a home.  However with a little bit of work, we do have a pretty good ability to showcase what is great about a home.  Simple things like removing clutter and storing away extra stuff can go a long way. Whether you are planning on putting your home on the market for sale or just planning your annual Spring cleaning, below are some tips which may help make the project more manageable.

Wipe Walls and Ceilings: Use vacuum to remove dust.  For stubborn surface grime (especially in the kitchen) use a solvent free degreaser.  When dusting always remember to work from the top of the room down and avoid using dusting sprays.

Floors: Vacuum and shampoo rugs with a rotary shampoo machine remember rugs without backings such as antique rugs may need to be dry clean.  Non wood floors such as Vinyl and linoleum which have lost their shine should be waxed with a polish designed for these surfaces.

Upholstered Furnishing and Book shelves: Take cushions outside and gently beat them to remove dust. Use the vacuums upholstery tool to clean under seat cushions.  Take everything off bookshelves and dust shelves and books with a feather duster; use a vacuum to reach into tight spaces.  Wax wooden furniture by wiping surfaces with a soft cloth dampened with water and mild dish detergent.  Apply paste wax such as Butchers wax with a cotton rag folded into a square pad, let dry and buff with clean cloth.

Windows and Window Hardware:  Using warm water and a mild dishwashing liquid scrub each screen with a brush and rinse thoroughly. For window hardware liquid polishes work well for medium tarnished surfaces, paste and creams are for heavier areas.  Using newspapers instead of clothes will give your windows a cleaner look.  Many draperies and curtains are machine washable; check labels.  Wipe wooden blinds with a damp cloth; warm water mixed with a mild dishwashing liquid is safe for metal and vinyl blinds.

Bedrooms: Turn over mattress and replace cool weather bedding with warm weather bedding.  Most pillows can be machine washed; this rids them of mold, bacteria and odors

Outdoor spaces: Clean porch ceilings and walls; sweep up cob webs and debris.  Scrub decks, Patios driveways and walkways.  Wash outdoor furnishings with mild dishwashing liquid, water and a soft bristled brush.  Inspect light fixtures; wash covering and inspect for damaged wires and connections

Ensure fire safety:  Change batteries in smoke detectors and make sure that units are all dust free.

Residential home sales: Will 2012 be the breakout year?

 April 23, 2012

Here is some good news. Residential homes sales in New Hampshire are up 17 percent above 2011 and the highest they've been since 2007.  Read the new article from the NH Association of REALTORS


Read The Article...

Stella Demetri Presented with Award

On Tuesday, April 19th, Stella Demetri was presented with an award of $500 for recruiting Derek Gilmore as an agent for our Nashua office. 

Thank you Stella, and welcome Derek!

New Hampshire Housing Market: Current Snapshot

On many levels, New Hampshire’s financial well being is the real estate market.  Not only are our tax revenues derived from the sale and assessment of real estate, our home owners also have a vested interest in what is taking place in the market and where we stand versus years past. The chart below shows the home sales for the first two months of 2012 versus 2011. The trend that was predicted in December of last year has played itself out so far in the first 60 days of the year: many more homes sold at slightly reduced or even pricing.

The trend of move units sold is almost universal across the state while the depreciation (and appreciation) on prices is more volatile. One of the main reasons for the resurgence of the housing market we feel is due in part to interest rate stabilization.

Many Realtors® feel that although we are experiencing some problems, the road to recovery has begun.Home affordability is at an all time high, if you are planning on staying in one place for more than 4 years, you have a steady job, good credit and a good savings than purchasing a home is the right path for you as a home buyer.   Taking advantage of today’s market is the best long term investment a buyer can make.  With interest rates at an all time low a family who was looking for a home a year or more ago can expect lower interest rates today, and their monthly payments may end up being lower as a result. 

Now is the time for home buyers to take advantage of programs such as USDA’s Rural Development  financing programs or NH Housing grants for those who qualify and FHA now qualifying people with as little as 3.5% down.  Also many credit unions and banks are offering special financing in their local communities.

For many families this market is creating an opportunity to purchase a home for much less than before.Many analyst hope that with all these opportunities we may see a positive change to the Real Estate market in the future.

FEELING LUCKY? Did you ever dream of winning the lottery?

So you may have missed the big one last Friday. I know we all bought a ticket… if for nothing else than to just dream of what could be. But we are giving you a second chance at playing the lottery.

 Real Living The Norwood Group is hosting a contest beginning March 27^th thru April 13^th.

“212 Chances to Become a Millionaire in 2012”.   

This campaign will consist of an insert which will be placed in the Amherst Citizen on March 27^th. 

At no obligation/no cost the readers can tear off the bottom sheet and mail it back (postage paid).  All inserts returned will be put into a box. On April 27^th 2012 at 4:00P a name will be picked and the winner will receive 212 lottery tickets for a chance to become a millionaire in 2012. The winner will then be invited to come to the Amherst office to collect their 212 lottery tickets with the hopes of receiving that winning ticket.

Many of the agents of Real Living are extremely active in their community and are excited about the contest as a fun way of giving back. We are looking forward to the contest drawing and meeting the winner.  We would like to wish all the contestants the best of luck.

Trends in NH Real Estate

The January 202 New Hampshire residential numbers are in...volume is up in Hillsborough County and across the state. With the current interest rates and great value in homes today, we expect to see more of this for the rest of the year.

What do you think?

Check out the report here

Back to the Future? 1991 vs. 2011

The Holidays and 2011 has come and gone. Leap Year Day  and the New Hampshire Primary and has come and gone.  Housing was used as a wepon by both encumbants and hopfulls this primary season, but as the snow settles, lets now look back at what really is going on in the state and around the corner.

To do this, lets pull the lense back. Back a few years to 1986, not because of the great year for Boston sports, but because it was a great year for New Hampshire Real Estate. With 58,000 total real estate deed transfers in the state that year, it was the highest on record and the lowest foreclosure percentage in the 35 years, we have had this statistic measured. In the five years that followed we saw the foreclosure rate rise (to higher levels than our current challenges) and the transfer of property seize up. From 1991 through 1996 our real estate market expanded. Total property transfers increased by almost 20%; the total percentage of foreclosure transfers dropped from a peak of just under 20% to almost 6%; interest rates dropped for a 30 year fixed by 2.5% and our state created almost 50,000 jobs. 

So what does this history lesson tell us? What does where we are today have in common with our non so distant past of the early ninties? What is different?

For starters consider the graph below. While the total transfers of real estate in the state is not the only measure of recovery it is a good indicator of what consumers and corporations are feeling in terms of confidence to make a long term purchase. What we feel is similar is the increase in total transfers of real estate from 2009 through 2011.

Real estate is a reaction to stability and the comfort people have in choices. Not shown on the above graph is the 20,000+/- jobs that have been created in the state since December of 2009. Also not show is the decrease in a 30 year fixed interest rate by about a half of a point over that same span. We see this all as a positive indicator. Recessions and recoveries are cyllical and we see this year as a turning point for that recovery in the state.

No analysis would be complete, however without a look at some of the differences in the cycles. In 1986 the decline in the market was like slamming on the brakes, but we arrived at our current condition by pumping them. Our recovery beyond 1991 was shown with a spike in foreclosures up to 20% and then a slow recovery year over year, but because currently we had no spike we have remained around 15% foreclosure rate for the past few years.

Overall we believe that the recession and recoveries of two decades ago share more in common that what they are apart. However because this go around did not have the “shock” decline effect, we feel that it will be a bit slower to recover as there are still issues to work out. Surely no one in 2012 is slamming on the gas, but we feel that people are staying away from the brake petal.

Cold Weather and Snow Anyone?

At the risk of jeopardizing things, Mother Nature has given us a very quiet winter. With the distinct exceptions of Halloween and Leap Year Day, we have been given very little in the way of snow fall or in the way of cold weather. Perhaps you even saw spring flowers making their way up or a golf friend getting ready for some March tee times. For us as home or condo owners, the question is… what does this weather mean for us?

Depending on where you live and how you operate, you may plow your own driveway or hire a neighborhood kid to help shovel. Perhaps you hire it out to a contractor or perhaps you are part of an association that does it for you. The question for homeowners this year is “Do you pay by the storm?” if the answer to that is yes, then you may be in the money as it relates to that part of your budget. If you are part of an association you may want to ask the home owners or condo association how they budget and contract.

Flower confusion aside the warmer weather has also meant a gentler heating season than in years past. Foreign and domestic oil volatility has kept prices high, but the net affect for most home owners is a more favorable heating season. Perhaps you purchased a few cord of wood, and only used some of it. Or perhaps you only needed to fill the tank once or partially instead of a few times. No matter what we hope that you have come out ahead.

If you have been the beneficiary of some unspent fuel or snow plow budget funds how are you going to allocate them? In a recent WMUR article, the State Department of Transportation is going to use the unspent snow plowing monies on road improvements that otherwise would have been pushed back. Can we as homeowners do the same?

Where can we invest these dollars to earn more value? Can the extra money you saved go to improvements such as better insulation in your attic? What about looking into weather stripping around your doors or windows? What about recycling the old AC window unit and purchasing a more efficient one.

If you are part of a home owners association or a condo association, ask the board or the management company what these unspent dollars could be used for around the grounds.

Mother Nature may not be through with us just yet, but if she decides to let the flowers grow and we are fortunate enough to walk away with a few dollars in our pocket, think of what we can do to help next winter.

Chris Norwood

Erin Pontbriand Joins Real Living | The Norwood Group

We are pleased to announce that Erin Pontriand has joined Real Living | The Norwood Group at our office in Nashua, NH. Erin comes from Reflections Realty Group. 

Here is Erin's Bio - in her own words. 

"I believe that good things happen to good people.  I live my life by that motto, both personally and professionally.  As my client, you will be treated with respect and represented with integrity.  Your needs, wants and desires come first, above all else.

I work in the Salem, Derry, Londonderry and surrounding areas.  I am experienced in the area of short sales and bank owned purchases.  I specialize in working with investors purchasing distressed properties.  With a degree in Interior Design, I enjoy helping clients with staging their homes and assisting investors with design ideas.  Whatever your real estate needs, I will make you feel like you are the only client I have.

I enjoy spending time with my husband of 12 years and our two daughters.  I love to read, paint and draw."

Buyer Opportunities

Much has been written about what a short sale or foreclosure means for a home seller. But home buyers in the market need to be aware of what this means for them.

Homebuyers, when looking for a home tend to shy away from foreclosures when in fact the savings that can be made by purchasing a foreclosed home can outweigh the risks and extra work involved.  In a down economy some homebuyers can save big money when purchasing a foreclosed home. The average foreclosed home usually sells at 5%-10% less than the market price.  Many lenders who have had a property on the market for longer than a month may be willing to waive certain fees in some instances even the down payment may be lowered.  “The biggest benefit is that you can not only negotiate on the price, you can also negotiate for better closing fees, interest rates and be flexible on closing dates” states Jim Spellman of Real Living The Norwood Group, Amherst.

Buyers are often distracted by the cosmetic issues.  Simple things such as painting, adding new trim or replacing the carpets are relatively inexpensive repairs and may also give the home a more appealing look.  Other issues to watch out for are structural or mechanical issues. Often when a homeowner gets behind on their mortgage they also get behind on the maintenance and repairs of their home.  This is why it is extremely important to have an extensive home inspection by a licensed professional.  

In today’s economy it is important for homebuyers to know the difference from their perspective of short sale, a foreclosure and Real Estate Owned “REO”.

A short sale or a pre-foreclose occurs when an owner, for whatever reason is 30-90 days behind on their payments and is in default to the lender. The lender is not obligated to take a short sale and in most cases the process can be frustrating for the Buyers and Sellers. Buyers need to be aware that in a short sale, the purchase and sales agreement is with the current seller. However the sale is contingent upon the seller's bank approval. This can take time and is normally the source of delay with a short sale. 

A foreclosure is when the lender takes possession of the property and the home owner is no longer a part of the sale.  Foreclosures are not sold by Realtors but are auctioned at a trustee sale. A foreclosed property, at the time of the auction requires the buyer to put a deposit down with a cashiers check and obligates the buyer to close within a pre-determined time frame.  When you purchase a home at auction it may come with many problems such as title problems, liens and sometimes tenants and owners still occupy the property therefore you may incur more costs and risks after you take over the property

REO (Real Estate Owned Property) is a property that has been foreclosed and has become bank owned. The property is listed by a Realtor who is hired by the bank, the lenders will often times remove any liens on the title and clear any issues that may slow down the sale.  More often lenders are extremely motivated to sell these properties.  Often times this is the best opportunity to find a good deal.

Knowledge is the key, do your research and do not be afraid to ask questions.  Working with a Broker who is familiar with the process will also help to make the transaction run more smoothly. Understanding the foreclosure procedure will give you bargaining power. Anytime you purchase a home you should always look into the future.  Making good choices now will save you time and money in the future when the time comes to sell the home.

Judy Vincent Joins Real Living | The Norwood Group

Real Living | The Norwood Group is pleased to announce that Judy Vincent has joined our team in Nashua. 

Here is her bio:

If you are looking to buy or sell the single largest investment in your lifetime, why not work with an agent who offers exceptional experience and ability - an agent who enjoys her work and consistently provides professional quality service! Judy Vincent is the agent to serve you!
 
As a real estate agent. Judy respects the decisions you make and specializes in finding the home that fits your needs. Her knowledge and integrity help implement and successfully close each transaction. Her strong negotiating and communicating skills will help you through the maze of paperwork, assuring you of a smooth and successful transaction.
 
As a Seniors Real Estate Specialist. As we age, we demand specialists in our health needs, so why not in our housing and equity needs as well? If you're thinking of selling, buying, relocating or refinancing, use the experience and knowledge of a Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES®) designee to help guide you through your transactions.
 
As an interior designer, she has a keen eye for how to give a home that great first impression! National statistics show that a staged home sells in half the time of a non-staged home and a staged home sells for 5% more than a non-staged home. Over 75% of Realtors® recommend a home be staged prior to going on the market, yet most of those Realtors@ do not personally have the skills to turn a house from a 'home' to a saleable, marketable 'product'.
 
Remember, Judy is committed to providing expertise for all your real estate needs. She is proud to serve all of Southern New Hampshire and the Nashua metropolitan area.

Welcome Kathleen DeMello!

Real Living | The Norwood Group welcomes Kathleen DeMello to our Nashua office!

 

 Born in Chicago, Illinois, Kathleen DeMello moved to New England with her New England native husband, Bob DeMello in 1971.  Once established in the Boston area she began building her career in space planning, design, project and facilities management, and corporate real estate, while she and Bob raised three beautiful daughters.  She served as president of the Boston Chapter of the International Facilities Management Assoc.   

In 2004 Kathleen gathered all her skills and embarked on another career path in residential real estate, obtaining her license and hanging it at Keller Williams Realty, in Nashua, NH.  In 2010, yet another opportunity presented itself to team up with two wonderful partners and open Reflections Realty Group, LLC, servicing residential real estate needs in Southern New Hampshire. She is now a proud member of Real Living/Norwood Realty Group and is happily ensconced in this great career at the Nashua office of 150 Broad Street. 

 She invites you to give her a call at 233-3673 and talk about your real estate needs!

Reflections Realty Group Joins Real Living | The Norwood Group

We are pleased to announce that Reflections Realty Group has joined our firm in the Nashua office located at 150 Broad Street in Nashua, NH.
 
In the last 24 months of combined sales we have helped over 250 families buy or sell a home. 

Kristina Prior of Reflections Realty Group said "It is wonderful to put together so many quality brokers into one location to service the greater Nashua Marketplace. If I created a team I would want to become a part of, this team would be the template. The professionalism and support has been nothing but exceptional. “

“Having Reflections join our team helps to expand our Nashua location and is an exciting way to start our rapid growth plans for 2012 throughout Southern New Hampshire.” says Karl Norwood.

If you are looking for residential, commercial, and relocation services please call us at 603-889-1875, visit us today at www.RealLivingNorwood.com.

Welcome Tim Leger to the Team!

 

We are please to announce that as of January 1^st, 2012, Tim Leger, a 15-year resident of Hooksett, NH, has relocated his residential real estate practice to Real Living | The Norwood Group’s office at 116 South River Road in Bedford, NH.

 Originally, Tim grew up in western Massachusetts in the Springfield area and spent his college years in Colorado Springs, Colorado.  His degree in broadcasting from Colorado College sent him into the world of DJ and videography.

Tim brings over 14 years of buying and selling experience with RE/MAX in Manchester, NH, where he was a member of the 100% club for six years.  The two organizations that have benefited greatly over the years from Tim’s efforts are the Miride Network Charity and the local Chamber of Commerce.  Thoday his focus is helping everyday people with their marketing of hard to sell homes by using his Certified Distressed Property designation.

 Tim has two daughters, Samatha and Jessica, who have grown up in Southern New Hampshire.  Tim can be seen traveling everywhere with his two infamous maltise/poodles, Lilly and Penny.

If you have worked with or would like to experience the Tim Leger difference, you can check out his website, email him, or just give him an old fashioned call at 860-4474.